While we were attending the 4 Series launch in Portugal, BMW M brought out some M5 and M6 Competition Package equipped models for us to drive. They also briefed us on the technical changes that come with the Competition Package in a very informational presentation which discussed the changes in even more technical details. Among the information discussed were the actual changes in spring rates, damping rates, stabilizer rates, steering ratios, torque/power output, and other details we've previously covered, including in our FAQ (reposted below).

In summary, springs rates and damping rates are increased by 20%, stabilizer rates by 15% and the steering ratio by 10%. See below for the information, as well as a steering ratio chart and torque/power dyno graph.

And to recap on the M5/M6 Competition Package to give you a full picture, here are the full details of the package, including our recent FAQ and answers.

BIMMERPOST Q&A (answers are a mix of direct quotes, paraphrases and my own contributions):

Can Competition Package parts/software be retrofitted?

No, official retrofit support will not be provided by BMW here in the U.S. But, of course some parts can be retrofitted by individual owners if they went to enough lengths to do so. Some things would be easier of course, but steering and software would be difficult. The demand for retrofit is lower in U.S. due to the higher lease penetration and higher car turnover. In comparison, Europe supports retrofitting more than the U.S.

Are the M differential "tune" and MDM software updates going to be available to upgrade pre-LCI M5/M6?

No official retrofit will be available for Competition Package features. But, a high level update was made to all M5 and M6 produced from March 2013 (to prepare it for ceramic brakes option). Changes included 1) smaller torsion bar in the hydraulic steering system which affects how the steering system (better) responds on center, 2) programming for the steering system and 3) stiffer front bushings to better deal with increased brake forces from optional ceramic brakes.

Note: the steering and suspension changes mentioned above are not the same ones that come with the Competition Package.

How much lighter are the competition wheels?

They are not lighter.

Is the Competition Package Sport Exhaust different than upcoming M Performance Exhaust?

Yes, it's positioned between the stock exhaust and the M Performance Exhaust [our details and clips]. It's not titanium like the M Performance Exhaust. It's sportier sounding than the stock exhaust by having its baffles pulled from the muffler. No power gains and no flow change.

What are the changes made to steering with the new Competition Package and how does it make the M5 "feel"?

In addition to the changes made in March 2013 (detailed above), the Competition Package includes a faster steering rack and related steering software. It has a faster on-center steering ratio compared to stock, which eventually ends in the same ratio as stock at the end of the rack. So, the on-center ratio is faster, quicker, and more direct which provides for a more precise feeling around center.

The +15 HP increase comes from which component(s)?

Only boost mapping - the effects of which take place at the top of the rev range.

The gains are only the top part (non sweet spot) of the rpm spectrum? This is where AMG at least gives you tangible measurable sweet spot gains.

As for the suspension I like the improvements- 20% is lot for spring and dampener rates along with better steering.

Its only money- Id pay it LOL

I would too if I were optioning out a 2014....but I wouldn't pay it if it meant taking a beating on my 2013 to get into a 2014 and get the comp package... but then again I am not made of money and my name isn't Vic...

I would too if I were optioning out a 2014....but I wouldn't pay it if it meant taking a beating on my 2013 to get into a 2014 and get the comp package... but then again I am not made of money and my name isn't Vic...

LOL Tom but you are right; if one has to take a huge loss to get out a 2013 and pay that much more to get into a Comp Package 2014, it would not be prudent.

The question is - how will this impact the performance/feel of the car on the street; i.e. are these increases in stiffness/spring rate etc going to be detrimental to every day driving feel?

More on that from me in October.

Regarding 601M being forged vs not - there was some conjecture that they might not be based on some literature someone found elsewhere which referred to 343M directly as forged, but 601M just as "light alloy".

It amazes me how contentious the 601 wheels are. They can be swapped out for the 343s if you prefer them at the same cost. Since the 343s are a $1300US upgrade, the comp package only really costs $6000.

Im happy I ordered the comp package for the suspension and steering alone, but i do agree its damn pricey for what you get.

It amazes me how contentious the 601 wheels are. They can be swapped out for the 343s if you prefer them at the same cost. Since the 343s are a $1300US upgrade, the comp package only really costs $6000.

Im happy I ordered the comp package for the suspension and steering alone, but i do agree its damn pricey for what you get.

I did the same thing. Pricey but gotta have it just so I don't say "I should have" and trade the car again!

I agree and disagree here. Yes it is a bit of a punch in the face/kick in the nuts for us 1st year dudes, but then again we've been driving the F10 M5 now for a year and driving it on Euro Delivery as one of the very first American's in the world is virtually priceless. I have memories that no Competition Package can make up for. So here's my plan, trade in my 2013 M5 for a 2017 M5 in September of 2016 and then wait 3 years for when the 2nd model year of the G-Series M5 comes out so I'm not a first year buyer again. Who knows, it might work.